International Campaign Addresses Violence Against Women and Girls

Law enforcement agencies in the western region participated in a global initiative aimed at increasing understanding of violence against women and girls (VAWG). This 16-day period of activism, which took place from November 25 to December 10, featured prominent police patrols and public outreach activities. According to Charlotte Gibbons, who manages the Swindon Paragon Integrated Domestic Abuse Service, the Christmas period frequently intensifies domestic abuse, attributing this to “extra pressures” and a rise in alcohol consumption. The campaign seeks to “shine the spotlight” on domestic violence and reveal predatory actions, with the goal of fostering a sense of safety and support for women. Violence against women and girls (VAWG) encompasses domestic abuse, stalking, harassment, coercive control, forced marriage, and other violent acts stemming from gender inequality, which consequently affect women and girls at a higher rate. Detective Chief Inspector Lucy Thorne of Wiltshire Police visited the Christmas market in Swindon to engage with the public regarding this persistent problem. This forms part of a program designed to prompt individuals to identify and report troubling conduct. Ms. Thorne stated that the public must heighten their awareness of potential dangers during the festive season’s approach, a time when individuals frequently celebrate out at night. “We have to get men to be allies and to be understanding,” she said. “We have to get the public to appreciate that this is a societal issue that we can’t fight alone. This is an epidemic. We need to listen and we need to act now.” Ms. Thorne emphasized the importance of public awareness regarding potential warning signs, citing an example like a sober man forcing an intoxicated woman into a taxi. “My message is be vigilant, call us, and trust us,” she said. “What you could be telling us could be that final jigsaw to the puzzle that we need. “It might be that person that you think ‘something just isn’t right’, who might be the person that’s committed several sexual offences over the county. Nothing is too little.” Concurrently, in Bath, a community twilight walk took place on November 25, with attendees wearing orange to signify the global occasion. Councillor Tim Ball stated that confronting violence against women and girls is “essential to building a safe and supportive community for everyone.” “The council is committed to tackling this important issue, and to effecting change at a societal level by supporting people away from future violence and working with women who have experienced abuse,” Mr Ball said. “Women need to feel heard and able to talk about what has happened to them without shame or silence,” he added. Additional activities were conducted throughout the week, such as educational workshops at colleges and universities, visits to establishments with liquor licenses to hand out anti-spiking kits, and “walk and talk” sessions for women to recount their experiences. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.